A variable control displayed through a graphical user interface and linked to a control element. The variable control has graphical representations of readily identifiable and easy to use controls. These controls include at least one text box to display a value. The displayed value can be set by default, or to show the current state of the control element. The variable control also includes at least one range box for assigning a range unit that corresponds to the text box. The variable control also includes a slider control that is linked to the text box and is used to make coarse adjustments to the value displayed in the text box. A spinner is also linked to the text box and is used to make fine adjustments to the displayed value. In a preferred embodiment, the user can select a digit or several digits within the displayed value and adjust only the user-selected digit or digits. Also in a preferred embodiment, the range box automatically updates the range unit when the displayed value is adjusted beyond a predetermined range limit.